Learn about antiques and collectables...
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Learn about and understand the items, manufacturers, designers and periods as well as the specialist terms used in describing antiques and collectables. Either click one of the letters below to list the items beginning with that letter, or click on a category on the left side of the screen to list the items under that category.
I. A. Crisp
I. A. (Isaac Arthur) Crisp was a British ceramics designer who worked for Wilkinson pottery from the late 19th to the mid-20th century. He is best known for his whimsical and decorative designs, which often featured animals, birds, and flowers.
Little is known about Crisp's early life and training. but he came from a region with a rich tradition in ceramics, known as the Staffordshire Potteries. He likely had exposure to the pottery industry from an early age. Crisp began his career as a ceramics designer at the Wilkinson Pottery Company, a renowned pottery manufacturer based in Burslem, Staffordshire, England. He is believed to have worked for Wilkinson pottery for several decades, from the 1930s to the 1960s. During this time, he designed a wide range of ceramic products, including plates, bowls, jugs, and figurines.
Crisp's designs were often inspired by nature. He frequently used animals, birds, and flowers as motifs. His work was also characterized by its use of bright colors and bold patterns. Crisp's work coincided with the Art Nouveau and Arts & Crafts movements, and his designs often incorporated the flowing, organic forms and motifs characteristic of this artistic style.
Some of Crisp's most popular designs include Kookaburra plates, Frog bowls, Kingfisher figurines and spring floral plates and jugs. Crisp's work was well-received by the public, and his designs were widely reproduced. His pottery is now highly sought-after by collectors and enthusiasts of mid-century modern design. collaborated with other notable designers of the time, such as Frederick Rhead, who also worked for Wilkinson Pottery.
Crisp died in the 1960s.
Ian Firth
Born in Auckland in 1931, Ian Firth discovered his passion for clay at the young age of 11. He honed his craft under the tutelage of some of New Zealand's first studio potters, including Olive Jones and Briar Gardiner, and quickly began creating and firing his own pottery. Firth later attended the Elam School of Fine Arts in the late 1940s and went on to establish the North Shore Society of Potters, which eventually became the Auckland Studio Potters Inc. in 1961.
One of Firth's most notable contributions to the New Zealand ceramics community was the development of the idea for a major sponsored exhibition and competition for ceramics. This concept eventually became the Fletcher Challenge Ceramic Awards, which ran for over 20 years. Firth continued to be an active and influential member of the New Zealand ceramics community until his passing in 2002.
Ib Kofod-Larsen
Ib Kofod-Larsen was a Danish mid-century modern furniture designer and maker. He was born on May 6, 1921, in a small village in Denmark. He showed an early interest in design and architecture, and he apprenticed as a cabinetmaker before attending the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts in Copenhagen.
After graduating from the academy in 1948, Kofod-Larsen worked as a freelance designer for several companies. In the early 1950s, he began designing furniture for the British company G-Plan, and his work quickly became internationally known.
Kofod-Larsen's furniture is characterized by its clean lines, organic forms, and use of natural materials. He was particularly fond of using teak and rosewood, and his furniture often features curved and sculptural elements. One of Kofod-Larsen's most iconic designs is the "Penguin" chair, created in 1953. This lounge chair is characterized by its distinctive low, curved backrest and the tapered wooden legs that resemble a penguin's legs, hence the name. Another notable design by Kofod-Larsen is the "Seal" chair, introduced in 1956. This chair features a sculptural backrest that wraps around the sitter like an embrace, creating a sense of comfort and intimacy.
Throughout his career, Kofod-Larsen collaborated with various Scandinavian furniture manufacturers, such as Selig and Faarup Møbelfabrik, to bring his designs to a wider audience. Kofod-Larsen continued to design furniture until his death in 2003. He is considered one of the most important Danish furniture designers of the 20th century.
Ichiko
Ichiko was a Japanese toy manufacturer that produced a wide range of toys, most notably tinplate cars, from the 1950s to the early 1970s. The company was known for its high-quality toys, which were often replicas of popular American and European cars. Ichiko toys are now highly sought-after collectibles, and they are considered to be some of the finest tinplate cars ever produced.
The exact origins of Ichiko are unknown, but the company is believed to have been founded in the early 1950s. Ichiko's toys were first exported to the United States in the late 1950s, and they quickly became popular among collectors. The company's most popular models included the Buick 58, the Cadillac Eldorado, and the Ford Mustang.
Ichiko continued to produce toys throughout the 1960s, but the company began to decline in the early 1970s. The rise of plastic toys and the increasing popularity of electronic toys led to a decline in demand for tinplate cars. Ichiko eventually stopped producing toys in the early 1970s.
Ico Parisi
Ico Parisi was a prolific Italian architect and designer who worked primarily in the mid-century modern style. He was born in Palermo in 1916 and moved to Como with his family in 1925. There, he studied architecture and design at the Brera Academy of Fine Arts. He began his professional career in the early 1940s, working as an architect and designer for a variety of clients. He was particularly interested in creating furniture that was both functional and aesthetically pleasing. His designs were often characterized by their simple lines, elegant materials, and innovative use of space.
In the 1950s, Ico Parisi began to collaborate with a number of Italian furniture manufacturers, including Cassina, Singer & Sons, MIM Rome, Arflex, Zanotta, Poltrona Frau, Bonaldo, Baxter, Minotti and B&B Italia. He designed a wide range of furniture for these companies, including chairs, tables, sofas, and cabinets. Some of Ico Parisi's most iconic mid-century modern designs include the Uovo chair (1951), the Selene table (1951) and the Ruota bookcase (1960). These manufacturers continue to produce Ico Parisi furniture today, using the same high-quality materials and construction techniques that he used when he was alive.
Ico Parisi continued to work as a designer and architect until his death in 1996.
Iittala
Founded in 1881 in the Finnish town of the same name, littala specialised on tableware and cookware.
Iittala took Finnish glass design upmarket in the 1930s, with Aino Aalto's glasses and Alvar Aalto’s iconic modernist Savoy vase designed, in 1936.
Between the 1930s and 1950s the company drew on the talents of leading Finnish designers with the aim of targeting the international design-conscious and giftware market.
At the 1951 and 1953 Milan Triennale exhibitions, two of IItala's designers, Tapio Wirkkala and Timo Sarpeneva were awarded the Grand Prix and this confirmed littala alongside Sweden’s Orrefors as leaders in the field of sophisticated glass design.
However, littala continued to produce its more popular designs over several decades, and this makes valuation of these items more complicated.
As an example, Alvar Aalto’s Savoy vase has remained in constant production since 1937, and second-hand pieces are invariably cheaper than new ones.
Similarly, Sarpaneva’s Orkidea (Orchid) vase, designed in 1953, has been reproduced over several decades whereas his Lancetti, designed in 1952, was made for only five years.
The result is that the value of the Savoy vase is relatively low compared to the Orkidea vase.
Ilias Lalounis
Ilias Lalounis was a Greek jewellery designer who was born in Athens in 1920. He was the fourth generation of a family of goldsmiths and watchmakers, and he studied economics and business at the University of Athens. However, his true passion was jewellery design, and he began working as a freelance designer in 1940.
His jewellery designs were inspired by Greek mythology and history, and he often used traditional Greek motifs in his work. He also experimented with new materials and techniques, and he was one of the first jewellers to use 22-karat gold in his designs. Lalouris's jewellery quickly gained a reputation for its beauty and craftsmanship, and he soon became one of the most sought-after jewellery designers in the world.
As his reputation grew, Ilias Lalaounis expanded his presence beyond Greece, opening boutiques in major cities like London, Paris, and New York. He was commissioned to create jewellery for celebrities such as Jackie Kennedy Onassis, Elizabeth Taylor, and Sophia Loren. In recognition of his contributions to the world of jewellery and the arts, Ilias Lalaounis received numerous accolades throughout his career. He was honoured with prestigious awards, including the French Legion of Honour and the UNESCO Picasso Medal, and his work was exhibited in museums around the world.
In 1968, Lalounis founded his own jewellery company., and he continued to design and create jewellery until his death in 2013. His work is still considered to be some of the most beautiful and innovative jewellery ever created.
Illum Wikkelso
Illum Wikkelsø, born in 1919 and passing away in 1999, was a Danish furniture designer renowned for his contributions to mid-century modern design. He began his journey in Faaborg, Denmark, where he apprenticed as a cabinetmaker during his teenage years. He furthered his education at the Technical Society School in Copenhagen and the Danish School of Arts & Crafts, studying under the influential architect and designer Kaare Klint, widely regarded as the father of modern Danish furniture.
After gaining experience as a cabinetmaker, Wikkelsø ventured into establishing his own design studio in 1954. Prior to that, he worked with the esteemed Danish architect and furniture maker Jacob Kjær, later moving on to collaborate with designer and architect Orla Mølgaard-Nielsen at Hvidt & Mølgaard. This partnership, which lasted over 30 years and produced over 250 designs, was founded by Mølgaard-Nielsen, Wikkelsø's former instructor at the Technical Society School, and Peter Hvidt.
Wikkelsø's design studio in Aarhus, Denmark, gained recognition throughout the 1950s and 1960s for its innovative and fresh approach to furniture design. His teak and leather lounge chairs, as well as slender rosewood dining chairs, became particularly iconic. Notably, during the 1960s, Wikkelsø merged Danish craftsmanship and pop art influences, featuring unconventionally shaped chrome frames and vibrantly coloured upholstery in his lounge chairs.
Using natural materials like teak and rosewood, Wikkelsø's meticulous attention to detail and craftsmanship became hallmarks of his furniture pieces. Danish manufacturers such as C.F. Christensen, Holger Christiansen, Eilersen, Farstrup, Silkeborg, and Søren Willadsen produced his designs. Among his famous creations are the T118 Coffee Table, the Gyngestol Rocking Chair, and the Model 91 Lounge Chair and Ottoman. Exhibited in museums and galleries worldwide, Wikkelsø's work remains highly sought-after by collectors.
Although Wikkelsø passed away in 1999, his legacy continues to inspire contemporary furniture designers.
Illums Bolighus
The Danish furniture retailing business Illums Bolighus was founded in 1925 by Danish entrepreneur Kaj Dessau under the name BO. Dessau was a visionary businessman with a keen sense of aesthetics. He collaborated with Swedish designer Brita Drewsen to create a unique concept for the store, which was unlike anything else seen in the world at the time. Their focus on quality and innovation helped to establish Illums Bolighus as a leading retailer of Danish design.
In 1941, the store was purchased by the owners of the nearby A.C. Illum department store and renamed Illums Bolighus. In 1961, the current building on Amagertorv in Copenhagen was designed by architect Kay Kørbing. The building is a classic example of Danish modernism, with its clean lines and simple, elegant design.
Illums Bolighus continued to grow and expand throughout the 20th century. In 2005, the company was acquired by an investor group headed by CEO Henrik Ypkendanz. Ypkendanz has led a period of sustained growth for Illums Bolighus, and the company now has stores in Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Germany, Austria, and France.
Illums Bolighus is known for its wide selection of Scandinavian design, including furniture, lighting, textiles, kitchenware, glassware, and porcelain from some of the most renowned Scandinavian design companies, such as Arne Jacobsen, Hans J. Wegner, Georg Jensen, Royal Copenhagen, and Fritz Hansen. The company is also known for its high quality and customer service.
Today, Illums Bolighus is one of the leading retailers of Scandinavian design in the world. The company's stores are a destination for design lovers from all over the globe. Illums Bolighus is a testament to the enduring appeal of Scandinavian design and the company's commitment to quality and innovation.
Imari and Arita Porcelain
One of the most popular and collected of the Japanese porcelains is Imari. Imari is in fact a European name for export porcelain produced in the town of Arita in the Hizen province of Japan. It was shipped through the nearby port of Imari from the second half of the 17th century and the first half of the 18th century. Pre-export period Imari is called Shoki-Imari.
There are two distinct styles of Arita or Imari porcelain.
Firstly there is the rare and highly sought after Kakiemon porcelain. It is sparsely decorated predominantly in coral red on a very fine white glaze. Highlight colours include yellow, green and aubergine Kakiemon wares are of a consistently high standard and command very high prices
In contrast, the more commonly found Imari in the west is called brocaded Imari or Kinrande Imari, and is usually richly decorated with flowers, foliage and figures. These pieces have an overall floral decoration reminiscent of a rich silk textile, and typical colours are underglaze cobalt blue and iron red, which is highlighted with colours such as gold, green, aubergine and yellow. There is a great variation in quality, ranging from quite crude though decorative wares to very finely painted wares.
Items exported to the West included garnitures of vases, plates, chargers, figures as well as utilitarian wares. Due to its popularity and success, Imari was widely imitated both in China and the West. English factories who produced Imari or "Japan" patterns as they were sometimes known included, Bow, Derby, Minton, Spode, Worcester and Mason's. European factories included Meissen, Chantilly and Delft.
Impasto
A technique where pigment is applied to a ceramic surface so that it stands out from the glazed surface in slight relief.
Imperial Amphora
Imperial Amphora was a brand of ceramics that was produced by the Amphora Pottery Company, which was a Czechoslovakian company that was active in the early 20th century. The Amphora Pottery Company was founded in the town of Turn-Teplitz (now called Teplice), which was a centre of the Czechoslovakian ceramics industry at the time. Imperial Amphora ceramics were known for their high quality and attention to detail, and were highly prized by collectors. The company produced a wide range of ceramic products, including vases, figurines, and decorative objects. Many of the company's products were made in the Art Nouveau style, which was popular in the early 20th century, and were decorated with intricate, stylized designs. The Amphora Pottery Company was nationalized by the Czech government in the 1940s and was eventually absorbed into a larger state-owned ceramics company.
Imperial Yellow
Imperial yellow, also known as "yangqing" in Chinese, is a bright, intense shade of yellow that was historically reserved for the exclusive use of the Chinese imperial family. It was considered the most prestigious and luxurious of all colours, and was used to adorn a wide variety of imperial goods, including porcelain.
Chinese porcelain decorated with imperial yellow was highly prized, and was often used to create exquisite pieces of imperial tableware, such as plates, bowls, and cups. The use of imperial yellow on porcelain was a symbol of the emperor's power and authority and was intended to impress and intimidate visitors to the imperial court.
The process of creating imperial yellow porcelain involved a highly complex and labour-intensive process, which was kept secret by the imperial court. The exact recipe for the yellow glaze used on imperial porcelain is still unknown, although it is thought to have been a combination of lead, tin, and antimony, with the addition of a small amount of iron oxide to achieve the distinctive colour.
Imperial Yellow
Imperial yellow, also called "Chinese Yellow" and "Royal Yellow" is an auspicious colour in Chinese culture.
It was the colour of Imperial China and the symbolic colour of of the five legendary emperors of ancient China. The colour was used to decorate royal palaces and used in the clothing of the emperors.
Important
Important is a word used in the antique trade to indicate an object should be ranked above other similar objects, and is therefore more valuable.
The object could be considered important because it is by a famous designer or maker, has been shown at a major exhibition, is of exquisite workmanship, is rare or is a "one-off", was made for an important patron, and so on.
Even further up the pecking order are objects that are described in catalogue descriptions as highly important or extraordinarily important.
Incised
A record of a name, date or inscription, or a decoration scratched into a surface, usually of a glass or ceramic item with a blunt instrument to make a coarse indentation. Compare with engraving where the surface is cut with a sharp instrument such as a metal needle or rotating tool to achieve a fine indentation.
Inclusions
Inclusions in glass objects refer to small, often irregularly shaped particles or bubbles that are trapped within the glass during the manufacturing process. These inclusions can be intentional or unintentional, and can range in size, shape, and composition.
Intentional inclusions are often added to the glass for decorative purposes, and can include materials such as colored glass, metallic foils, or even small mementos like photographs or other objects. These intentional inclusions are typically added to the glass while it is still in a molten or semi-molten state and are then moulded or blown into the final shape of the object.
Unintentional inclusions, on the other hand, are typically the result of impurities or air bubbles that become trapped within the glass during the manufacturing process. These inclusions can be seen as small specks or bubbles within the glass, and can sometimes be a sign of poor quality control during production.
While intentional inclusions can be a desirable feature of some glass objects, unintentional inclusions can sometimes be seen as a defect, and can reduce the value of a piece. However, in some cases, certain types of unintentional inclusions can actually increase the value of a piece, such as with antique glass that contains bubbles or other imperfections that are characteristic of the time period in which it was made.
Indo-Portuguese Furniture
Indo-Portuguese furniture refers to furniture that was produced in India during the period when Portugal had a significant colonial presence in the country, roughly from the 16th to the 18th century. The style is characterized by a blend of Indian and Portuguese design elements, reflecting the cultural exchange that occurred during this time.
Indo-Portuguese furniture is often made from hardwoods such as teak and rosewood, and is typically intricately carved and ornamented. The furniture often features motifs such as floral and foliate designs, as well as religious iconography such as crosses and angels.
The style is particularly notable for its mix of Indian and European design elements. For example, a piece of Indo-Portuguese furniture might have a distinctly Indian shape or form, but be decorated with intricate Portuguese-style carving or inlay work.
Indo-Portuguese furniture was popular among both Indian and European elites during the colonial period.
Ingmar Relling
Ingmar Relling was a renowned Norwegian furniture designer who made significant contributions to the field of mid-century design. He was born on May 12, 1920, in Bergen, Norway, and passed away on September 25, 2002, leaving behind a rich legacy of innovative and functional furniture designs.
Relling studied at the Norwegian National Academy of Craft and Art Industry (now known as the Oslo National Academy of the Arts), where he graduated in 1947. He initially started his career as a designer at Rastad & Relling Tegnekontor, a renowned architectural firm in Oslo. During his time there, he collaborated with other prominent Norwegian designers, including Rolf Rastad.
In 1950, Relling established his own furniture design studio in Oslo, where he began creating his distinctive pieces. He gained international recognition for his work, particularly during the mid-century modern movement, which emphasized clean lines, functionality, and simplicity.
One of Relling's most iconic designs is the "Siesta" chair, created in 1965. The Siesta chair became a breakthrough piece for Relling, earning him critical acclaim and commercial success. It features a sleek, minimalist design with a bentwood frame and a sling-like seat made of canvas or leather. The chair was praised for its ergonomic qualities and comfort, making it a popular choice for both residential and commercial spaces.
Relling's designs were often characterized by their innovative use of materials, combining wood, metal, and upholstery in unique and visually appealing ways. His furniture pieces were known for their functionality, durability, and timeless aesthetic.
Throughout his career, Relling received numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to design. His work was exhibited in various international design exhibitions, including the Triennale di Milano and the Scandinavian Design Today exhibition in New York.
Ingmar Relling's designs continue to be highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts of mid-century modern furniture.
Inlay
Decorative patterns inserted into the main body of a piece of furniture, generally in wood of contrasting colour and grain, though brass, ivory, ebony, shell and sometimes horn have been used. Inlay may consist of a panel of well figured timber inset into a cabinet door front, geometric patterns, or complex and stylized designs of flowers, swags of foliage, fruits and other motifs. As a general rule, in pieces where the carcase is constructed in the solid, the inlay is relatively simple such as stringing, cross banding and herringbone banding. Where more elaborate and decorative work was required veneer was used. Inlay has been fashionable from at least the latter half of the 17th century, when a variety of elaborate forms were developed
Inro
Originating in the fifteenth century, an inro was originally a Japanese seal case, used to carry the owner's seal for signature of documents and pigment. Later the inro was modified by adding compartments and was used to carry aromatic herbs, tobacco or medicine. It was suspended from the sash around the owners waist (obi), by a cord secured by a toggle (netsuke). Wood covered in lacquer was the favourite material, though carved wood, ivory, porcelain and pottery, and bamboo were also used. For specialised use iron was employed. The finest examples come from the sixteenth to eighteenth centuries and were decorated with gold or silver in delicate complex patterns, the favourite motifs being birds, beasts, gods, flowers, blossoms, dragons, and clouds, often depicted in an asymmetrical manner, often whimsical, often near abstract. To collectors, the variety of the lacquer is of great interest, whether it is flat, raised, incised or carved.
Intaglio
A term used to define a method of decoration most common in glassmaking and jewellery which involves engraving, carving or moulding an image into the background, leaving an impression, and leaving the top surface of the item flat, the opposite to relief carving, and also know as counter-relief.
Intarsia
When used in relation to wooden items, intarsia is the Italian term for inlaying, where the background timber is cut away and and a selection of timbers of different colours and grains are inserted to form a picture or pattern.
International Watch Co. (iwc)
International Watch Co. (IWC) is a Swiss luxury watch company that was founded in Switzerland in 1868 by American watchmaker Florentine Ariosto Jones. Jones was a pioneer in the watch industry, and he established IWC with the goal of combining American manufacturing techniques with Swiss craftsmanship to create high-quality watches. In 1880 after bankruptcy, the company was transferred to the Rauschenbach family.
IWC's early years were marked by a focus on precision and innovation. In 1885, the company introduced its first digital watch, and in 1899, it created the world's first wristwatch with a digital display. IWC continued to push the boundaries of watchmaking throughout the early 20th century, introducing new materials and innovative designs that set it apart from other watchmakers of the time.
From the 1935 to the end of World War II, IWC was one of five watch manufacturers that built B-Uhren for Lthe Luftwaffew, Germany's air force. During World War II, IWC's factories were heavily damaged, and the company was forced to rebuild from the ground up. Despite these challenges, IWC emerged from the war with renewed vigor, and in the decades that followed, it continued to grow and expand its reach.
In the 1970s, IWC introduced a number of iconic watch models, including the legendary "Ingenieur" and "Da Vinci" collections. These watches were known for their precision, durability, and distinctive designs, and they helped to solidify IWC's reputation as a leader in luxury watchmaking.
Today, IWC continues to produce some of the world's most coveted and sought-after watches, with a focus on precision, innovation, and quality craftsmanship. The company has been a subsidiary of the Swiss Richemont Group since 2000.
Ireneé Édouard Rochard
Ireneé Édouard Rochard (1906-1984) was a French sculptor known for his remarkable works in bronze and other materials. He was born on October 27, 1906, in Paris, France.
Rochard attended the École Nationale Supérieure des Beaux-Arts in Paris. He was greatly influenced by the Art Deco movement, which was characterized by its modern and geometric approach to design. In the early 1930s, Rochard began exhibiting his sculptures at the prestigious Paris Salon, which brought him significant recognition and acclaim. In 1937, Rochard achieved international recognition when he participated in the Exposition Internationale des Arts et Techniques dans la Vie Moderne (International Exposition of Art and Technology in Modern Life) held in Paris.
Throughout his career, Rochard's sculptures were predominantly cast in bronze, though he also worked with other materials, such as ivory and ceramic. His subjects often portrayed graceful ballerinas, elegant women in flowing dresses, and classical mythological figures. Rochard's ability to capture the essence of movement and emotion in his sculptures set him apart as a master sculptor of his time. During World War II, like many artists, Rochard faced challenges, but he continued to create art despite the difficulties. After the war, he resumed his artistic pursuits and gained renewed popularity during the post-war period. Irenee Édouard Rochard's work remained highly sought after by collectors, and his sculptures can be found in private collections and museums worldwide. He continued to work and exhibit his sculptures until his passing on July 15, 1984.
Iridescent Decoration of Porcelain
Iridescent decoration of porcelain is a technique in which a thin layer of metallic glaze is applied to the surface of porcelain to create a shimmering, rainbow-like effect. The metallic glaze is usually made with a mixture of metal oxides, such as gold, silver, or platinum, that are fused to the surface of the porcelain during firing.
This technique was first developed in the late 19th century, and was particularly popular in Art Nouveau and Art Deco styles of decorative art. Iridescent decoration of porcelain can create a wide range of colours and patterns, depending on the types of metal oxides used and the firing techniques employed. It is a highly skilled and labour-intensive process, requiring a great deal of technical expertise and attention to detail. Today, iridescent porcelain remains a popular and highly valued form of decorative art.
Ironstone China
Credit for the invention of ironstone china is generally accorded to Charles Mason in 1813. Charles Mason was one of the two sons of Miles Mason who founded the Mason works in 1802, and ran the business with his brother George Mason.
Ironstone was a heavy hard earthenware which was slightly translucent, its strength supposedly coming from a very small quantity of iron slag added to the mixture. The additional strength enabled the company to make larger objects that were not susceptible to breakage.
The company manufactured dinner wares, toilet sets, tureens, jugs and so on, and the most popular patterns were blue and white, floral and Oriental Imari style colours.
The trade name "Patent Ironstone China" was registered by the company in 1813, but the patent was only valid for 14 years and was not renewed, enabling other potteries to use the word "ironstone" in describing their wares.
Mason wares are generally well marked with "Mason's Patent Ironstone China" .
Irridescent Glass
Iridescent glass has a shimmering or rainbow-like appearance due to the way it reflects light. It is created by applying a thin layer of metal oxides to the surface of the glass while it is still hot and malleable, which then creates an interference effect that produces a range of colours as the light reflects off the surface. The exact colours and patterns created by iridescent glass depend on the specific types of metal oxides used and the techniques used to apply them.
Iridescent glass was first developed in the late 19th century, and quickly became popular for use in decorative art glass and stained glass windows. Some of the most famous examples of iridescent glass were created by artists such as Louis Comfort Tiffany and his studio, who used it extensively in their distinctive lamps, vases, and other decorative objects.
Isamu Noguchi
Isamu Noguchi (1904-1988) was a Japanese-American sculptor, designer, and landscape architect. He is best known for his mid-century furniture designs, which are characterized by their simple, elegant lines and organic forms.
Noguchi was born in Los Angeles to a Japanese father and an American mother. He spent his early childhood in Japan, but moved back to the United States in 1918. He studied sculpture at Columbia University and the Art Students League of New York. In 1927, he received a Guggenheim Fellowship, which allowed him to travel to Paris and study under the Romanian sculptor Constantin Brancusi.
During his time in Paris, Noguchi developed his own unique style of sculpture, which was influenced by Brancusi's work as well as his Japanese heritage. He began to create sculptures that were both simple and bold, and that often combined organic and geometric forms.
In the early 1930s, Noguchi returned to the United States and began to design furniture. He was drawn to the idea of creating furniture that was both functional and beautiful. He also wanted to create furniture that was affordable and accessible to a wide range of people.
Noguchi's furniture designs were influenced by his work as a sculptor. He used the same organic forms and simple lines in his furniture that he used in his sculptures. He also experimented with a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and stone.
Some of Noguchi's most famous furniture designs include the Coffee Table (1944), the Rocking Chair (1947), and the Noguchi Lamp (1951). His furniture is still popular today and is produced by a number of different companies.
In addition to his furniture designs, Noguchi also created a wide range of other works, including sculptures, gardens, and stage sets. He was a prolific artist and his work is displayed in museums and galleries around the world.
Noguchi died in New York City in 1988 at the age of 84. He is considered one of the most important and influential artists of the 20th century.
Isfahan
Isfahan is ancient capital of Persia, located about 450 km south of the Tehran, the present capital of Iran.
The city was the site of the royal carpet manufactory during the Safavid era, and noted for its rich silk rugs that often incorporated gold and silver thread. The Safavid dynasty lasted from 1502 to the early 1700s, when the country was invaded by Afghans, at which time the craft of weaving became stagnant.
The craft was revived in the 1920s, with the region again producing fine quality rugs, and one of the most popular designs incorporating a central medallion with floral borders.
Issy Miyake
Issy Miyake, was born in 1938 in Hiroshima, Japan.He is a renowned Japanese fashion couture designer known for his innovative and avant-garde approach to clothing design. He is considered one of the most influential designers of the late 20th century, renowned for his experimentation with fabrics, technology, and traditional Japanese aesthetics.
The devastation caused by the atomic bomb had a profound impact on his early life and influenced his later design philosophy. He studied graphic design at Tama Art University in Tokyo, where he developed an interest in fashion design. After graduating in 1964, he worked in the Paris studio of French designer Guy Laroche, gaining valuable experience in the fashion industry.
In 1970, Miyake returned to Tokyo and founded his own design studio, Miyake Design Studio. He quickly gained attention for his unique and groundbreaking designs that challenged traditional fashion norms. One of his earliest notable works was the "A-POC" (A Piece of Cloth) collection in 1998, which introduced a concept of clothing as a single piece of fabric that could be cut and shaped into various garments without any waste.
Throughout his career, Miyake continued to push boundaries by exploring the intersection of fashion, technology, and functionality. He experimented with new materials, such as pleated fabrics, which became a signature element of his designs. His Pleats Please line, introduced in 1993, showcased garments that were wrinkle-resistant, lightweight, and easy to care for, revolutionizing the way people thought about clothing.
Miyake's creations were often inspired by traditional Japanese aesthetics, incorporating elements of minimalism, asymmetry, and the concept of "Ma" (empty space). He believed in the importance of designing clothes that allowed freedom of movement and comfort while also expressing individuality.
He has received numerous awards throughout his career, including the Fashion Editor Club of Japan's New Designer Award in 1974 and the Design for Asia Award in 2007. His designs are showcased in prestigious museums around the world, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York and the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.
Miyake remains active in the fashion world, although he officially stepped down from his design duties in 1997.
Istoriato
Istoriato decoration is found on Italian Renaissance majolica ceramics. The term "istoriato" means "storytelling" in Italian, and the decoration typically features detailed scenes from history, mythology, or literature, often including multiple figures and elaborate backgrounds. The istoriato decoration technique involves painting the scene onto the surface of the ceramic piece using bright, vivid colors. The technique was developed in the early 16th century in Italy and was particularly popular in the cities of Urbino and Faenza.
Istoriato ceramics were often produced as commissioned works for wealthy patrons, and were highly valued for their intricate design and narrative content. They were used for a variety of purposes, including serving dishes, decorative plates, and wall hangings.
Ivan Englund
Ivan Englund (1915-2007) was born in Liverpool, NSW. He
completed a Diploma of Painting and Drawing at East Sydney Technical College in
1951, then taught art and ceramics in institutions in Victoria, Canberra and
Wollongong, where he took up a post at the Technical College in 1954. He was
one of the original four members of the Potters?
Society of Australia when it was formed in 1956. He conducted extensive
research into glazes and published two books and many articles on this work. In
1962, he was awarded an ESTC Fellowship for his development of igneous rock
glazes. In 1971, he was appointed Senior Head Teacher of Art at ESTC, and from
1972 to 1977, he conducted the Ivan Englund Pottery School at the Rocks, before
moving to Walcha, NSW, and then to Bawley Point, NSW, to work as a full-time
potter. For his work on middle-fire glazes he received a Doctorate from
Wollongong University in 1995.
Ivory
Ivory is a hard white material that comes from the tusks of elephants, mammoth, walrus and boar, or from the teeth of hippopotamus and whales. The ivory from the African elephant is the most prized source of ivory. Although the mammoth is extinct, tusks are still being unearthed in Russia and offered for sale.
Ivory has been used since the earliest times as a material for sculpture of small items, both in Europe and the east, principally China and Japan.
In Asia ivory has been carved for netsuke, seals, okimono, card cases, fan supports, animals and other figures and even as carved tusks.
In the last 200 years in Europe ivory has been used to carve figures, for elaborate tankards, snuff boxes, cane handles, embroidery and sewing accessories, in jewellery and as inlay on furniture. Its more practical uses include being used for billiard balls, buttons, and a veneers on the top of piano keys.
The use and trade of elephant ivory have become controversial because they have contributed to Due to the decline in elephant populations because of the trade in ivory, the Asian elephant was placed on Appendix One of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), in 1975, and in January 1990, the African elephant was similarly listed. Under Appendix One, international trade in Asian or African elephant ivory between member countries is forbidden. Unlike trade in elephant tusks, trade in mammoth tusks is legal.
Since the invention of plastics, there have been many attempts to create an artificial ivory
Ivory
Ivory is a hard, white material obtained from the tusks of elephants, walruses, narwhals, and other animals. It has been prized for centuries for its beauty, durability, and rarity, and has been used extensively in decorative arts in Western and Oriental cultures from the 18th to the 20th centuries.
In Western cultures during the 18th to 20th centuries, ivory continued to be a popular material for creating decorative objects. A few examples of ivory objects from Western cultures during this time period include:
• toiletry necessaire: A set of toiletry items made of ivory, late 19th century.
• ivory chess set: A set of intricately carved ivory chess pieces, created in the 18th century.
• ivory cane: A walking cane with an ivory handle, often carved with intricate designs or figurines.
In Oriental cultures, ivory continued to be used for decorative arts during the 18th to 20th centuries. Just a few examples of ivory objects from Oriental cultures during this time period include:
• Japanese okimono: A small ivory figurine depicting scenes from everyday life in Japan.
• Chinese ivory puzzle ball: A series of carved, nested spheres made of ivory, often featuring intricate carvings and designs.
• Cantonese ivory chess set: A set of intricately carved ivory chess pieces made in the 19th century in Canton, China.
It is important to note that the use of ivory in decorative arts has been controversial due to the impact on elephant populations. Many countries have implemented restrictions on the trade of ivory in order to protect endangered elephant populations. For example, in the United States, it is illegal to import, export, buy, or sell elephant ivory with limited exceptions for antiques and certain musical instruments. The European Union has also banned the trade in ivory within its member states, with exceptions for some antique items. The restrictions on the trade of ivory aim to protect endangered elephant populations and prevent illegal poaching and trafficking of ivory.
Iznik
Iznik pottery, also known as Isnik pottery, originated in the Turkish town of Iznik during the late 15th century. Iznik was an important centre of ceramic production during the Ottoman Empire, and the pottery produced there is known for its distinctive style and high level of craftsmanship.
Iznik pottery typically features bright, bold colors and intricate floral and geometric designs. The designs often incorporate Islamic calligraphy and other decorative motifs, and the pieces are glazed with a clear, turquoise-tinted glaze that is characteristic of the style.
The production of Iznik pottery reached its peak during the 16th and early 17th centuries, when the Ottoman Empire was at its height of power and cultural influence. The pottery was highly valued for its beauty and quality, and was used for a variety of purposes, including serving dishes, tiles, and architectural elements.
The decline of the Ottoman Empire in the 18th and 19th centuries led to a decline in the production of Iznik pottery, and the tradition was largely lost. However, in the early 20th century, there was a revival of interest in the style, and artisans began to recreate the designs and techniques of the original Iznik potters.